FCT CP promises confidentiality as personnel mental health assessment begins

In a significant move prioritizing the welfare of its personnel, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has launched a comprehensive mental health and medical assessment exercise.

“

We are conducting medical evaluations that cover everything about the health status of officers and men of the FCT Command and also to evaluate their mental status and see their stress level so that the medical team can advise accordingly.

Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi has personally assured officers and men that the process is strictly confidential, aiming to destigmatize mental health support within the force. The exercise is designed not as a punitive measure, but as a proactive step to identify stress levels and provide necessary medical guidance, ensuring officers are in optimal condition to serve.

“

At least under my watch, I will ensure that every officer and man is being routinely checked. We are not going to do it just one stop. As we conclude, we will allow for a little time after which we assemble again and still screen them because medical issues at times are spontaneous.

This initiative marks a departure from traditional approaches, establishing a continuous program for routine health checks. Sanusi indicated that these screenings could become a regular feature, occurring bimonthly or quarterly, based on medical recommendations. The data gathered will be instrumental in improving planning and support systems for the command's personnel.

“

The intention is not punitive. The intention is not to humiliate them, degrade them or disgrace them.

Sanusi emphasized that the confidentiality of individual results is paramount, adhering to professional ethics. This assurance is crucial for fostering trust and encouraging full participation, as the command seeks to build a healthier, more resilient police force capable of meeting the demanding challenges of maintaining security in the nation's capital.

“

Whatever we are doing, even though we are doing it collectively as a force, the result of it is individual to each of them. Nobody will be allowed to know what the result of the other person is. It is private and within the code of conduct of the medical practitioners.